Driving the Built Environment Twin Transition: Synergising Circular Economy and Digital Tools

Abstract

This chapter offers a comprehensive analysis of the intersection between digitalisation and the circular economy (CE) within the construction sector. It underscores the transformative potential of integrating digital tools to advance circularity objectives across managerial, environmental, economic, and social dimensions. The chapter discusses fourteen digital tools and technologies, which play a pivotal role in CE by streamlining data integration and visualisation, enhancing the accuracy of Life Cycle Costing (LCC) and Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) assessments, and supporting the adoption of CE strategies. Moreover, it explores how digital tools can facilitate collaboration among stakeholders, fostering knowledge sharing and effective communication throughout the project lifecycle. Nevertheless, challenges such as the absence of standardised methods, data interoperability issues, and the need for well-defined system boundaries remain. The chapter highlights the critical role of digitalisation in advancing the transition towards CE in the construction sector, emphasising the necessity of overcoming technical and systemic obstacles to fully harness the potential of digital tools in implementing CE. This transition aligns with the broader ambitions of the European Green Deal and the EU Digital Strategy, aiming to create a more sustainable, efficient, and resilient construction industry. By addressing these challenges and leveraging digitalisation, the construction sector can make a significant contribution to a sustainable and circular economy, ultimately benefiting both the environment and society.